Spain’s government just adopted the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of anti-Semitism.
The IHRA definition says: “Anti-Semitism is a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews. Rhetorical and physical manifestations of anti-Semitism are directed toward Jewish or non-Jewish individuals and/or their property, toward Jewish community institutions and religious facilities.”
Jewish groups applauded the move, which was announced on Wednesday.
“We applaud Prime Minister [Pedro Sanchez] and his government for taking a key step in the effort to combat rising anti-Semitism,” tweeted the American Jewish Committee.
“At a time when anti-Semitism is worryingly growing in strength in Europe and across the world, the IHRA definition has never been more important,” said Sacha Roytman-Dratwa, director of the Combat Anti-Semitism Movement, in a statement. “It is a gold standard which spells out exactly what Jew-hatred looks like, making clear that it has no place in free, democratic and tolerant societies such as Spain.”
“The Spanish government’s adoption of the IHRA definition will also resonate beyond its borders,” he continued. “It will encourage additional countries to take the same clear, firm and principled stance that anti-Semitism has no place in today’s world.”
Last month, the parliament of Spain’s Balearic Islands passed a bill condemning anti-Semitism, as per the IHRA definition. It pertains to Ibiza, Majorca, Palma and other areas.
